University of Missouri Spring Blood Drive collects nearly 1,800 pints in three days

April 10, 2014

COLUMBIA, Mo. (April 10, 2014) — Thousands of patients in the local area and beyond may benefit from the generosity of blood donors at this week’s University of Missouri Spring Blood Drive after the drive collected 1,798 pints of blood in three days. Because each donation could help save up to three lives, more than 5,300 patients could benefit.

“The support the Red Cross sees from the University of Missouri each year is astounding,” said Scott Caswell, CEO of the Missouri-Illinois Blood Services Region. “We cannot thank enough the donors and volunteers who helped make this week’s Spring Blood Drive a success.”

This was the 25th consecutive year for the Spring Blood Drive, which was held Tuesday through Thursday in the Student Recreation Complex on the University campus. Blood donated at the Spring Blood Drive may help many patients in need, including accident victims, cancer patients and those undergoing surgery.

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.